(SAINT LOUIS, MO, 2/11/15) – The Muslim Student Association of Saint Louis University (SLU MSA) and the Saint Louis Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-St. Louis) are holding a prayer service vigil for the three young Muslims who were shot in the head yesterday in Chapel Hill, N.C.

“In light of this devastating story, I believe it is our duty as American-Muslims to provide some form of solace for our students and community members,” said Adil Husain Co-President of SLU MSA.

“The news of their murders sent chills into the hearts of our community across the country,” said Faizan Syed Executive Director of CAIR-St. Louis. “We are horrified by the brutal murders and frustrated by the limited media coverage of this incident compared to other violent extremist acts.”

The alleged killer, 46-year-old Craig Stephen Hicks, has been arrested and charged three counts of first-degree murder. He is accused of shooting Deah Shaddy Barakat, 23, his wife Yusor Abu-Salha, 21, and her sister, Razan Abu-Salha, 19 at the University of North Carolina. Both female victims are pictured online wearing Islamic head scarves (hijab). No motive for the shootings has been released.

"Based on the brutal nature of this crime, the past anti-religion statements of the alleged perpetrator, the religious attire of two of the victims, and the rising anti-Muslim rhetoric in American society, we urge state and federal law enforcement authorities to quickly address speculation of a possible bias motive in this case," said CAIR National Executive Director Nihad Awad. "Our heartfelt condolences go to the families and loved ones of the victims and to the local community."

CAIR is America's largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.

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